Memorandum of understanding between DfE and GSHA, 2023 to 2027 - GOV.UK

This is a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Department for Education (DfE) and the Grammar School Heads Association (GSHA). It sets out the shared aims of both parties and how

they will work together and communicate effectively in order to achieve these aims.

GSHA represents 151 of the 163 grammar schools. Its role is to represent and promote the interests of its member schools.

Officials within the DfE schools group will be the main point of contact responsible for this work. They will carry out this work in accordance with ministers’ wishes.

This MoU covers 2 areas of shared interest. These areas are the:

This MoU sets out shared aims and activity until the end of 2027.

The government wants a diverse schools system that allows every child to go as far as their talents can take them.

GSHA has demonstrated commitment to encouraging more disadvantaged pupils to be admitted to selective schools.

The purpose of the joint working between GSHA and DfE is to:

GSHA, supported by DfE, will deliver 3 commitments, and in doing so set a gold standard for the rest of the sector. These commitments are to:

DfE will support GSHA member schools in designing their admission arrangements to achieve their desired outcome in line with the School Admissions Code.

GSHA and DfE will return to these commitments and may update them in light of emerging findings around best practice on fair access.

GSHA and DfE have also agreed to work together in other areas.

GSHA and DfE agree to do this through events and communications activity, including:

GSHA and DfE agree to do this to help build the evidence base, keep informed of schools’ activity and what’s working. They will do this by:

In carrying out this MoU, both parties agree to maintain open and regular lines of communication, handling sensitive information appropriately.